18-year-old Accidentally Shot and Killed

Evan Neumeister, an 18-year-old from New Palestine, Indiana, was accidentally shot in the chest and later died at the hospital. Officials are still investigating the apparent accidental shooting, which occurred with three friends present, but preliminarily they know that the 9 mm handgun used belonged to 20-year-old Erik N. Wilkinson. Wilkinson was arrested on charges of criminal recklessness and involuntary manslaughter, but the prosecutor’s office will determine the actual charges.

The Neumeister family is well-loved in the community, with friends and family members posting heartfelt wishes on social media. “…I remember him so clearly. He always had a gentle spirit and was so earnest. I just loved working with him. He was just adorable,” wrote his 5th grade teacher.  His 2nd grade teacher wrote, “I remember Evan as one of my sweet second graders. He was such a hard worker and mannerly little guy. I am so sad for the loss of such a kind young man.”

And one family member wrote, “[t]here are no words. We love you.”

Source:

Kristy Deer, “Investigators Release Name of Teenage Shooting Victim,” greenfieldreporter.com (November 24, 2023).

“Evan Neumeister, Obituary and Tribute Wall” Erlewein Mortuary and Crematory (November 22, 2023).